It added that "price promotion in the category has continued to accelerate, with the largest brands increasing the depth and quantum of price promotion".

First-half sales of AG Barr's brands, which also include Rubicon, Orangina, and Tizer, increased by 5.8% which is ahead of the total soft drinks market of 4.5%.

During that period, the better weather meant that the growth rate in the second quarter was more than double that of the first quarter.

In September 2012, AG Barr announced a plan to merge with its major rival, Britvic. However the deal was referred to the competition commission, and even although it received clearance the deal fell through.

The Cumbernauld-based firm said its focus over the past six months had been on the completion of its facility at Magna Park, Milton Keynes, which was now in commercial production.